Key facts include the same 12.3-megapixel sensor as found in the D90 and D300, a 720p video recording mode albeit without autofocus like the D90 and a 2.7-inch screen that swivels out from the back of the camera.

Users will be able to choose from 19 scene modes including an array of "effects" that will for example apply a soft focus to skin tones but not the rest of the picture.

The camera will cost £719.99 for the body and £799.99 for the D5000 with a 15-55 VR kit lens making it considerably cheaper than the Canon 500D.